Using a cane in the contralateral hand can reduce demands on which muscle group?

Using a cane in the contralateral hand can reduce demands on which muscle group?

• A. Hip flexors
• B. Ankle dorsiflexors
• C. Hip external rotators only
• D. Hip abductors

Answer: (D)

Using a cane in the opposite hand reduces the demand on the hip abductors because the cane provides an external support that helps stabilize the pelvis during the stance phase. Normally, the stance leg’s hip abductors (gluteus medius/minimus) must generate a lateral moment to keep the pelvis level when the other leg is in swing. The cane’s reaction force creates a counteracting moment and shares part of the load, so those hip abductors don’t have to work as hard. The other muscle groups—hip flexors, ankle dorsiflexors, and hip external rotators—are involved in different aspects of gait and aren’t primarily relieved by this assistive setup.

Using a cane in the opposite hand reduces the demand on the hip abductors because the cane provides an external support that helps stabilize the pelvis during the stance phase. Normally, the stance leg’s hip abductors (gluteus medius/minimus) must generate a lateral moment to keep the pelvis level when the other leg is in swing. The cane’s reaction force creates a counteracting moment and shares part of the load, so those hip abductors don’t have to work as hard. The other muscle groups—hip flexors, ankle dorsiflexors, and hip external rotators—are involved in different aspects of gait and aren’t primarily relieved by this assistive setup.